South Korea: 2.2-magnitude quake detected near North Korea coast

Aug. 9 (UPI) -- South Korea's meteorological agency said Friday a 2.2-magnitude earthquake was detected off the coast of North Korea.

The tremor occurred on Friday at about 7:30 p.m., Yonhap reported.

The epicenter of the earthquake was located in an area about 30 miles south of Cholsan, North Pyongan Province, at 39.32 degrees north latitude and 124.65 degrees east longitude, according to the report.

The Korea Meteorological Administration also said the quake occurred due to "natural causes" and that it is likely no casualties occurred, Newsis reported.

North Korea is facing challenges this summer, owing to record-high temperatures and a heat wave that is affecting the region.

The impoverished country could also be reeling from an ongoing drought.

The conditions could be severe; last month Pyongyang's state-controlled news agency KCNA reported a drought that began in the spring could have a long-term impact.

"Most parts of the western coast, and the central inland, are experiencing high temperatures. Serious drought conditions are ongoing," the news agency said in July.

State media had said the area most seriously hit includes South Hwanghae Province, known as the rice basket of the country.

North Korea's meteorological administration said rainfall in May was 37 to 46.3 percent of the average. Weather conditions are increasing concerns of a food shortage in the country.

South Korea has offered 50,000 tons of rice aid, but Pyongyang has rejected the offer citing Seoul's decision to go ahead with joint military exercises.